Easter: Embrace strong tradition of religious tolerance

REGARDLESS of one’s religious belief, every Fijian can identify with the meaning of Easter, says Opposition and Social Democratic Liberal Party leader Sitiveni Rabuka.

He said Easter embodied the inspiring promise of new life, the triumph of hope over despair and of faith over doubt.

“As a devoted Christian, I urge us all to take time and reflect on Easter as an individual, as a family, a community and a nation,” he said.

“I would like to share with the nation a verse from the book of Isaiah which reminds me of the ultimate sacrifice for God’s love for mankind.

“But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on Him, and by His wounds, we are healed. Isaiah 53:5.”

Mr Rabuka said the people of Fiji must continue to embrace the strong tradition of religious tolerance, freedom of speech, and respect for one another’s individual rights as that was the foundation for a truly democratic, prosperous and inclusive Fiji.